UPDATE:
It was announced yesterday that the Member of Parliament killed in the car accident has been identified as Timothy Khoza.
The presiding officers collectively paid tribute to Khoza’s dedication to serving fellow South Africans.
“Mr Khoza was known amongst his colleagues in Parliament as a devoted public representative with untiring commitment and dedication to the service of the people. Our thoughts and prayers are also with the three injured MPs and the occupants of the other vehicle involved in the crash for their speedy recovery,” Speaker Baleka Mbete’s office said.
Deputy Speaker Lechesa Tsenoli also indicated that she has seen the three injured members and is confident that they will recover from the ordeal.
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Parliament has announced with “shock and devastation” that four Members of Parliament (MPs) in the National Assembly belonging to the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education have been involved in a tragic car accident near Paarl in the Western Cape on Tuesday morning.
“The MPs’ vehicle overturned while traveling to Paarl as part of oversight visits to various schools in the area. One of the MPs passed away at the scene. The three other MPs are seriously injured and are receiving emergency medical attention,” read the statement.
The South African National Congress (ANC) also released a statement identifying the three MPs who were critically injured: Nomalungelo Gina of the ANC, Ian Ollis of the DA, and Cynthia Majeke of the UDM are receiving treatment at Paarl Medi-Clinic.
“We wish those in hospital a speedy recovery. This is indeed a very painful time for the ANC parliamentary caucus.”
They also confirmed that the deceased PM is an ANC member. The ANC deputy Chief Whip, Doris Dlakude is on her way to Paarl to identify the MP who has passed away and visit those in hospital. Parliament will provide more information as soon as the family of the deceased MP has been informed.
The DA has sent its condolences to the family of the MP who died.
“We join them in mourning their loss and wish them strength during this difficult time.”
The ANC said it is unfortunate that they have lost another member in such a short space of time. Last week, ANC MP Trevor Bonhomme died after a long illness.
Parliament scheduled a media briefing for 11.30 am to provide details on the incident.
Photography Getty